One Day in Siquijor: The Perfect Day Trip Itinerary

Can You Really See Siquijor in One Day?

Yes—but just barely. One day gives you a taste of Siquijor’s magic, hitting the must-see highlights while leaving you wanting more. This itinerary is perfect for day-trippers from Dumaguete or travelers with tight schedules.

Important Note: To make this work, you’ll need to catch an early morning ferry and arrange transportation (scooter or tricycle) in advance.

Getting There: The Early Bird Schedule

First Ferry from Dumaguete

Pro Tip: Buy your return ticket immediately upon arrival to secure your spot on the late afternoon ferry.

Arrange Transportation

At Siquijor Port, you have two options:

1. Scooter Rental (₱400-500/day): Best for flexibility
2. Tricycle Day Tour (₱1,500-2,000): Driver knows all the spots

Morning: East Coast Wonders (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

Stop 1: Breakfast in Siquijor Town (7:00 - 7:45 AM)

Start with a hearty Filipino breakfast at Baha Bar or grab a quick bite at the local market. Try:

• Tapsilog (beef taps, garlic rice, fried egg) - ₱80
• Pandesal with butter and coffee - ₱30

Stop 2: Balete Tree (8:00 - 8:45 AM)

Just 10 minutes from town, the 400-year-old Balete Tree is wrapped in local legends. The massive strangler fig has become famous for:

• Natural fish spa in the spring at its base
• Mystical atmosphere, especially in morning mist
• Perfect photo opportunities

Details:

• Entrance fee: ₱20
• Fish spa: Included
• Time needed: 30-45 minutes

Stop 3: Lazi Church & Convent (9:00 - 9:45 AM)

Head southeast to the San Isidro Labrador Church and its adjoining convent—one of the largest in Asia. Built in 1857, this UNESCO-listed structure features:

• Coral stone architecture
• Centuries-old wooden floors
• Peaceful gardens

Details:

• Entrance: Free (donations welcome)
• Dress code: Cover shoulders and knees

Stop 4: Cambugahay Falls (10:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

The crown jewel of Siquijor. This three-tiered waterfall with turquoise pools is everything you’ve seen in photos—and more.

What to do:

• Swim in the crystal-clear pools
• Swing on the famous Tarzan rope
• Rent a bamboo raft (₱100)
• Jump from the lower platforms

Details:

• Entrance fee: ₱30
• Parking: ₱20
• Bring: Swimwear, waterproof phone case, towel
• Time needed: 1.5-2 hours minimum

Lunch Break (12:00 - 1:00 PM)

Option A: Local Carinderia Near Cambugahay

Simple, authentic, cheap. Point at what looks good.

• Cost: ₱50-100

Option B: JJ’s Backpackers Village (Lazi)

Western and Filipino options with chill vibes.

• Cost: ₱150-250

Option C: Hold Out for San Juan

If you’re not too hungry, wait for the beachside restaurants in San Juan.

Afternoon: West Coast Beaches (1:00 - 6:00 PM)

Stop 5: Salagdoong Beach (1:30 - 3:00 PM)

Take the coastal road west to this famous cliff jumping spot. The resort beach features:

• 10-meter cliff jump for the brave
• 5-meter platform for beginners
• Crystal clear swimming areas
• Picnic areas and facilities

Details:

• Entrance: ₱40
• Cottage rental: ₱200-500
• Time needed: 1-1.5 hours

Stop 6: San Juan Town (3:30 - 4:30 PM)

The tourism hub of Siquijor. Grab a late lunch or snack at one of the beachfront spots:

• Coco Grove Beach Bar - Great smoothies
• Salamandas - Wood-fired pizza
• Monkey Business - Cocktails with a view

Walk along the beach promenade and browse the souvenir shops.

Stop 7: Paliton Beach - Sunset (5:00 - 6:00 PM)

End your day at the best sunset spot on the island. This crescent-shaped beach lined with palm trees is pure magic during golden hour.

What to expect:

• White sand beach
• Coconut palm silhouettes
• Fewer crowds than San Juan
• Perfect photo opportunity

Tip: Bring a sarong or blanket. Buy a coconut from a vendor (₱30-50) and watch the sky turn orange.

Evening: Return to Dumaguete

Last Ferry Options

Head to Siquijor Port by 5:00 PM to catch the last fast ferry.

One-Day Budget Breakdown

What You’ll Miss (Save for Next Time)

One day isn’t enough to see everything. Here’s what to save for your return:

• Cantabon Cave - Needs 2+ hours plus guide
• Mt. Bandilaan - Half-day hike
• Guiwanon Marine Sanctuary - Snorkeling spot
• Healers & mystics - Requires local connections
• East coast beaches - Kagusuan, Tubod
• Island circumnavigation - Relaxed full-day activity

Tips for a Successful Day Trip

Do:

• Start early (first ferry)
• Book return ticket immediately
• Wear reef-safe sunscreen
• Bring cash (limited ATMs)
• Download offline maps

Don’t:

• Try to see everything
• Rush through Cambugahay Falls
• Miss the last ferry
• Forget swimwear and towel

Is One Day Enough?

Honestly? One day is enough to fall in love with Siquijor, but not enough to fully experience it. Most travelers who do a day trip end up planning a return visit for 2-3 nights.

If your schedule allows, consider spending at least one night. The island transforms after the day-trippers leave—that’s when Siquijor’s real magic emerges.

But if one day is all you have, this itinerary will give you an unforgettable taste of the “Island of Fire.”

Ready for more? Check out our 3-Day Complete Guide for the full Siquijor experience.